Taylor Swift Archives - Fashion Voyeur

Categories: Fashion, Models, Uncategorized

Trouble for the 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show

What was looking set to be the biggest and most awesome Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show to date, is crumbling like a Primark lace thong in a tumble dryer. Scheduled to take place in just a matter of days, the whole spectacle is looking a little, well, shaky.

The post “What We Know So Far” all the way back in September pitched a big change for the lingerie brand. Bringing the annual show to Shanghai to appeal to a whole new market and adding a fashion segment in collaboration with none other than Balmain hinted at the brand’s intention to move closer to the fashion arena. A whole new set of rookies and some familiar faces made the grade and we got to see the Champagne Nights Fantasy Bra costing a cool $2 million which has been assigned to Lais Ribeiro for 2017. All very promising and all minor shifts to keep up with and ultimately exceed trends and expectations. So how then did it unravel?

The first very minor rumbling happened after it was reported that Taylor Swift *might* perform at the 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show; this was quickly set right when it was confirmed that whilst Swift will not perform, she’ll have a front row seat for her BFF Karlie Kloss‘ return to the VS runway, and any associated drama that might inspire a song.

After that, the internet reminded us of an unfortunate video of Gigi Hadid, posted by Bella Hadid to Instagram and SnapChat of the model posing with a buddha shaped cookie and squinting her eyes – effectively mocking Chinese culture. The video was swiftly deleted but as we know, nothing ever really disappears once it’s appeared online. The result? Gigi ejected. That’s right Voyeurs, she’s outta there and that was just the start of the trouble for the 2017 Victoria’s Secret fashion Show….

Adriana Lima

Irina Sharipova

Julia Belyakova

Kate Grigorieva

Dasha Khlystun

There are a whole raft of visa issues for models and one particular performer. Let me back up a little, every artist or model wishing to perform in China is vetted in advance, social media is drilled and posts are combed for any potentially offensive content, and these officials are shit hot. Models Irina Sharipova, Julia Belyakova, Kate Grigorieva, and Dasha Khlystun have all been denied entry to the country and it’s reportedly down to posts on their personal social media accounts. Adriana Lima’s position in the show hangs in the balance too as her visa application is delayed due to an “ongoing diplomatic problem”. Ouch, losing a veteran Angel will hurt the brand, especially one as well known and hotly anticipated as Lima.

Performer-wise it looks pretty certain that Harry Styles will play the show, in terms of scandal he’s pretty boring and non-controversial, unless you count that “sticky fingers” post he tweeted a few years ago of course, but it looks like there’s two spots vacant on that glittering stage. Katy Perry was rumoured to be making her second appearance as a performer at the runway show however after having her visa granted initially pending validation, it looks as though those Chinese officials found out just how shit her music is and put a stop to that immediately.

A screen capture of Katy Perry performing at the 2014 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show — STILL CAPTURE 2014 VS FASHION SHOW

Actually, it’s a little more serious than that as Perry has been banned from performing in Shanghai “indefinitely”. According to reports it all stems back to a performance on the singers Prismatic tour in Taipei in 2015 which was crammed with sunflowers. From the sunflowers on her hideous frock to the microphone stand weirdly shaped like a giant sunflower, Perry clearly hadn’t done her research as the sunflower is used as the motif of the ‘Sunflower Student Movement’, a resistance group who opposed what they perceived to be mainland China’s overreach in Taiwan. Total… face… palm… The singer did send a lighthearted letter to the Chinese government promising to behave however even they didn’t see through her thinly veiled bullshit. Banned. Forever. Imagine that, free of Katy Perry and her music forever? Shrewd move Shanghai.

With media outlets struggling to arrange access to the show venue and the show’s stalwart models appearances hanging in the balance, maybe there will be a spot for Swift to swoop in like some kind of super annoying, shrill, tall and wingless Angel to save the day. Or maybe Ed Razek will opt for someone cooler like Pink or Drake, or more current like Dua Lipa. One thing’s for sure though, with only two days to go, there’s everything to play for.

Pixie x

Categories: Fashion, Models

Rumoured Performers at the 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show

You know I have my ear to the ground when it comes to getting the goss on the annual spectacle that is the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, I was even lucky enough to bag an invite to the 2014 VS Fashion Show in London and mingle with the Angels backstage. When it comes to the announcement of the entertainment, that’s something I really do get excited about. The right performers can make or break a segment of the show.

ALESSANDRA AMBROSIO & ADRIANA LIMA WEARING MATCHING FANTASY BRAS DURING THE VICTORIAS SECRET FASHION SHOW 2014 IN LONDON WALKING TO A SONG BY ED SHEERAN

VS FASHION SHOW LONDON 2014

VS FASHION SHOW PARIS 2016

Think about the most memorable VS Fashion Shows and you’ll automatically picture a particular VS Angel and her outfit, a Fantasy Bra, or a performer. The 2014 show hit all the right notes with Ed Sheeran, Ariana grande and Hozier, the twin Fantasy Bras and the still spectacular image of Elsa Hosk almost wiping out Ariana Grande during the University of Pink segment. See what I mean? One memory leads to another when it comes to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and it all hinges on the performers to give it the right vibe.

For the 2017 showcase in Shanghai I was positive that Zayn Malik would be performing, based on nothing more than him being the kept BF of Huffy Hadid 1 (that’s Gigi BTW). Given that The Weeknd topped the bill in 2016 I was sure we were seeing a trend, and maybe we were, but where one former One Directioner could have been, it looks like we might be hearing the dulcet tones of another.

Step forward Harry Styles. The Victoria’s Secret rumour mill is in overdrive and this floral suit wearing One Directioner is at the forefront of speculation. Ladies Man, check. Lover of ladies in lingerie, check. Titspervert? Well if that infamous now deleted retweet is anything to go off, then that box is most definitely checked. The guy is certainly a contender, music wise though, I’m not so sure.

HARRY STYLES LATE LATE SHOW PERFORMANCE MAY 2017

TAYLOR SWIFT VS FASHION SHOW 2015

KATY PERRY VS FASHION SHOW 2010

So who else could be joining Harry ‘Take Me Seriously Now’ Styles on the Victoria’s Secret runway? Well, as we know there are always three performers to take the stage and the other names in the mix are none other than Katy Perry and adopted Angel and ex girlfriend of Harry Styles, Taylor Swift. If you’re a Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show die hard you’ll know that Ed Razek famously told Swift she was welcome back on stage any time, and even teased that she might walk the show as an honourary Angel one day. We should be so lucky. Not. But hey, if she gets to do it in front of her ex then who am I to protest.

Katy Perry is an odd choice, more upbeat cartoonish fun than sensual and sexy, my bet is on her headlining the VS Pink segment of the show and probably being asked to tone it down to keep the focus on the show itself. I wouldn’t bet on seeing Left Shark making an appearance either unless Razek has shoehorned some sort of sext surfer chick look into the show. Here’s hoping….

Pixie xo

Categories: Uncategorized

SJP vs The Blogosphere: Wins All Round

The Met Gala 2016 – you’re familiar with this year’s crop, the mass of silver and metallic gowns on the red carpet and most likely the worst of the bunch will be stuck firmly in your head for the next few days at least.

Obvs, worst of the bunch was undoubtedly Taylor Swift, you know this well enough by now and luckily for me, most of you seem to agree. However, what defines a ‘miss’ in the fashion stakes? For me it’s someone who missed the theme by a mile, failed to adhere to it at all, or completely misinterpreted it altogether, for others it’s a hot mess. We’ve all got our own rules.

One celeb who just wasn’t having it was Sarah Jessica Parker. Parker arrived on the night bucking the trend for metallics for an off-white Monse ensemble that was a huge contrast amongst the sea of silver robots on the red carpet.

Twitter blew up with comments criticising SJP’s choice of outfit for not fitting the Manus x Machina theme, even I jumped on that wagon and rode it suggesting that this outfit might be more fitting for a Pirates of the Caribbean themed party and she’s undoubtedly one of my favourite red carpet dressers – however I stand by it, this outfit just didn’t do it for me.

For everyone saying that SJP was irritated, or that she lost her shit at someone’s comment, this is just a simple case of someone in the public eye, defending and explaining their choice, something SJP has every right to do, and she did it with aplomb….

Blogger, Ivy Marshall, posted on Instagram: “The 2016 Met Gala Theme was “Manus X Machina; Fashion in the age of technology and this trio didnt get the memo @sarahjessicaparker@dvf @madonna.” and within minutes, and in fact the second comment on the post, she received this from SJP

“Got the memo. Always welcome thoughts but I’m a stickler for the theme and pay close attention to what it means. Every year with great consideration, research and conviction. The understanding of man and machine, how they intersect, when and why is what we considered. Perhaps you weren’t aware of the technology used in the details and embellishments of the design. Or perhaps you simply didn’t like what I wore which is completely fine but you can’t accuse me of not paying close attention and adhering to the theme. With respect and warmest regards, sj”

Scathing, but sweet, the perfect blend of response. In a further response to the backlash over her choice of outfit, SJP penned a piece for T Magazine in which she explained the ‘technology’ referred to in her Insta-comment:

“My team takes the theme so seriously each year — and I don’t think we’d do it any other way, Manus x Machina: Fashion in the Age of Technology” challenged me, we didn’t want to simply apply lights and actual, physical technology on me. We didn’t want it to be about the electronic screen or something that could turn on and off. We wanted it to be about the technology of thought, of application, of fabrication.”

Game, set, match – SJP.

Like a savvy little Blogger, Ivy Marshall responded with a simple “2016 might not have been her best look and yes I still think she was out of place!!!” and links to her blog natch. Shrewd move Ivy. I like it. After all, there’s nothing like a scuffle with a celebrity, or a superheater to boost your social media following. Cue winky face emoji, high-5 hands and fist bump

Pixie x

Categories: Uncategorized

Best of the Met Gala 2016

Every year when the Met Gala theme is unveiled to illustrious fanfare, I get excited and this years theme, Manus x Machina had me psyched; Fashion meets technology, man vs machines and how this translates into an entire, out of this world look, I had visions of Blade Runner meets Plato’s Atlantis and very high hopes.

It’s worth mentioning here that every year, as the first starlets begin to appear on the red carpet for the Met Gala, it’s evident that a huge proportion of them either, a. Didn’t get the memo. b. Got the memo and paid it no heed, or, c. Think they’re so freaking fabulous that the memo doesn’t apply to them.

However, to restore your faith in fashion, and celebrating those who can actually interpret and dress to a theme, I’ve put together my picks from the Met Gala 2016 (don’t worry Voyeurs, there’s a special post coming for the downright awful). The best are those who really embraced the Manus x Machina theme with their look and looked flippin’ aces in doing so. These starlets should be praised for not only having eyes and being able to read, but for also being brave and looking beauts for our viewing pleasure. Feast your eyes on these futuristic treasures…..

My ultimate favourite and residing at the number one spot: Poppy Delevingne, early on the red carpet and possibly the most memorable, for this spangly, beaded and probably pretty noisy effort, Poppy I salute you…

2. Jourdan Dunn. One word, just wow. From the first glimpse on the balcony of The Standard Hotel, to the entrance on to the red carpet, Miss Dunn knew this Balmain dress would turn heads and her grey tinted hair & silver smoked lids were the perfect accoutrement to this awesome display of event dressing. Kudos JD.

3. Claire Danes scores points for the sheer unexpectedness of this bespoke Zac Posen creation. The very definition of fashion meeting technology, this dress gave off an effervescent glow in the dark, if the Met Gala did Big Fat Gypsy Weddings, this would be the equivalent of Thelma Medine’s butterfly gown. Total Swoon – at the Zac Posen, not the Thelma Medine, because that would be cray.

4. In fourth place, it’s a surprising entry, Kim Kardashian West. Now Voyeurs, you all know I’m not Kim’s biggest fan but credit where it’s due, this is a knock out dress and it’s completely on theme, from the futuristic accessories and the slicked back hair, to the robotic armour like frock. As Gabrielle Chanel always said, when accessorising, one should remove the last piece before leaving the house in order to feel properly dressed and I can’t help but feel this rings true here – Kim, leave Kanye at home next time, denim, cuban heels and weird contacts do not a style icon make.

5. Kristen Stewart. I love this girl. I think she’s a fashion enigma, I adore her fuck it attitude to fashion and her total unwillingness to comply. She bucks trends and creates new ones in doing so. I’d turn for this girl, yes, I love her that much. Debuting a brand new bleached ‘do, Kristen dressed head to toe in Chanel (natch) and wore a beauty look straight off the SS16 runway better than the models. Good work K-Stew – See me after class. Cue wink face emoji….

6. Double threat Zayn Malik & #HuffyHadid are ranking pretty high for this matching ensemble of robotic-chicness. “Zayn, this god damn manicure cost me $2000 dollars, I’m getting it in the shot so hold still” Gigi was overheard saying on the red carpet, probably. Weird poses aside, the look is totes on point however #HuffyHadid has spoilt my collage by (fake) smiling in a picture and for that I can never forgive her. Hmph.

7. Kendall Jenner, for daring to be different, yet remaining the same. It’s trick she pulls off time and time again by wearing unexpected colour combos in old faithful styles. This cutout mosaic dress looked like mirror tiles when she walked and looked phenomenal against the see of metallic silver gowns. Her boobjob was made for this gown, maybe not specifically but it fit like a glove and although you can’t tell from Cindy’s Botox filled face, I think she liked it too.

8. A surprising entry from Nicole Kidman, but then whoever wore this stellar Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen creation was going to score huge style points. You’ll no doubt remember it for its dramatic runway appearance and the drama is ten fold on the red carpet, with its billowing cape and cutout sides, it’s freaking showstopper for all the right reasons.

9. Ok now before you dive in with any comments on this one Voyeurs, just remember that I know Taliah personally.

Never one to shy away from making a statement through performance or fashion, FKA Twigs has garnered a super loyal army of fans and this Manus x Machina interpretation was no different with some hailing it as he best look ever. Personally, I think this is tame for Twigs but my guess is she was showcasing the tattoos and accessories. Either way, she took the theme and put her own Twigs spin on it and it worked.

10. Yup Voyeurs, this really is the third of the Kardashian / Jenner Klan to appear in my top ten. It was a difficult choice between Alessandra Ambrosio and Kylie, but due to Kylie’s sheer determination, she just clinched it. She showed up on the red carpet with a sleek new bob – we like this, a lot – and a toned down make up look for her first ever Met Gala appearance and even threw some shade, but all eyes were on THAT Balmain dress. The dress weighed so much that after the event, Kylie was left bloodied, bruised and crying – not even jokes – and for that kind of commitment she gets the number ten spot. Bravo Kylie.

kylie-jenner-fc429621-afb4-4fbc-8343-4f2763a1ffe4

Special Credit: Florence Welsh and the Gucci Crew. For being a true underdog, Florence is a risk taker, despite having a quirky signature style, she sits outside of the box rather than firmly in it and Alessandro Michele has had a hand in elevating her style status recently since making her his muse. Florence gives hope to girls everywhere, demonstrating that flashing flesh isn’t the only option. Totes helps that she’s ginger.

Looking back over the pictures, there were actually so many good outfits that fit the theme this year and the Manus x Machina theme is props my most favourite to date but don’t worry my dear #Voyeurs, there’s a post on it’s way rounding up the worst offenders and a special one dedicated to the atrocity that was Taylor Swift.

You’re welcome

Pixie x

Categories: Uncategorized

Oscar de la Renta, the Peter Copping Era

Oscar de la Renta is a name synonymous with modern casual luxury, mention de la Renta to any girl worth her Manolos and she will no doubt conjure up with affection, the image of Carrie Bradshaw and Alexandr Petrovsky dancing in McDonalds in THAT pink dress;

or of Sarah Jessica Parker at the 2014 Met Gala in bespoke and personalised de la Renta:

Oscar de la Renta has for years been the go-to designer for countless American first ladies, A listers the world over, and who could forget that it was Sex and the City that brought de la Renta to the modern girls regular vocabulary. The designer had a penchant for silk, and vibrant colours, and a subtle nod to the eighties. Originally a painter, he was won over by fashion and has a CV that leaves many designers in the shade.

The fashion world undoubtedly lost one of it’s heroes in October 2014 when Oscar de la Renta passed away aged 82, and many wondered how the house would continue after such an iconic reign at the helm. Step forward Peter Copping, formerly of Nina Ricci.

The NYFW FW15 collection was the first de la Renta collection under the creative direction of Copping and it absolutely stayed true to de la renta’s legacy. The A list were packed into the NYFW show space in droves and extra folding chairs were brought out to seat the masses who poured in to judge Copping’s debut. Copping primed his audience with a polite note advising of a “new chapter” at the House whilst also remaining respectful of the late de la Renta, let’s not forget, de la Renta died before he and Copping had a chance to work together.

Taylor Swift and BFF Karlie Kloss wore matching de la Renta tulip dresses as they took their seats together on the FROW and as one model strutted past in an electric blue floor sweeper Karlie was heard whispering “Beautiful…” with Taylor nodding in agreement.

The show had a much more youthful, light feel to it than shows of old, yes this was absolutely a de la Renta presentation, that much was clear, but this had a fresh new edge. Hemlines were higher and there were flashes of midriff on show through panelling and cut outs, this is fresh territory for the house of de la Renta. The collection was undoubtedly chic and feminine, as you would expect from de la Renta, Nina Ricci was the ideal training ground for this and Copping has showcased his skills to perfection with this inaugural collection.

de la Renta himself was partial to a ruffle or two and Copping has carried this sentiment through to the FW15 collection and has kept alive the essence of de la Renta through the chic and understated finishing touches such as a contrasting colour silk waist tie, velvet trimmings and of course the impeccable cut. Hair and make-up were kept simple, a deliberate attempt to keep focus on the collection.

This collection has red carpet written all over it and it marks the very beginning of an exciting new chapter for the House of de la Renta whilst maintaining the true originality of its namesake. Peter Copping may have just opened up the brand to a fresh new market, and I personally can’t wait to see how this unfolds. As a true die-hard fan of de la Renta I was sceptical, after all, those are big shoes to fill and that’s a big legacy for anyones shoulders, I can’t deny that my inner Carrie Bradshaw wept the day Oscar de la Renta died but his reign is far from over, with Copping at the masthead I can’t help but think it’s going to be ok.

Pixie x

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